How to become a driving instructor (ADI) in the UK

To become an approved driving instructor (ADI) in the UK you must be 21 or over, have held a full car driving licence for at least 3 years, and pass an enhanced DBS (criminal record) check. You then pass three DVSA qualifying tests in order: ADI Part 1 (theory and hazard perception), ADI Part 2 (your own driving ability) and ADI Part 3 (your ability to instruct). Once you pass, you register with the DVSA to start charging for lessons. Most people qualify in around 6 to 12 months, and the DVSA test and registration fees come to roughly £600 (training course fees are extra). Always check the current rules and fees on GOV.UK before you start.

Before you spend anything on training, check that you meet the DVSA's eligibility rules. To become a car ADI you must:

• be 21 or over;
• have held a full car (category B) driving licence for at least 3 years;
• pass an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and be judged a 'fit and proper' person, even if you already have a DBS check.

You cannot apply if you have been banned (disqualified) from driving in the last 4 years, and the DVSA can refuse or remove instructors who have 6 or more penalty points. Check the full eligibility rules in the ADI register guide on GOV.UK.

The three ADI qualifying tests

You must pass all three parts in order, and you must pass Part 2 and Part 3 within 2 years of passing the Part 1 theory test, or you start the whole process again.

ADI Part 1 — theory and hazard perception

A computer-based test with multiple-choice questions plus a hazard perception test, set at a higher standard than the learner theory test. There is no limit on how many times you can attempt Part 1.

ADI Part 2 — test of driving ability

A test of your own driving to a high standard, including general driving, manoeuvres and 'eyesight'. You get a maximum of 3 attempts at Part 2 within the 2-year window.

ADI Part 3 — test of instructional ability

A DVSA examiner watches you teach a real lesson to a pupil and marks you against the national standard for driver and rider training. You also get a maximum of 3 attempts at Part 3.

The trainee (PDI) licence: earn while you learn

After you pass Part 2, you can apply for an optional 6-month trainee licence. This lets you teach learners for payment while you build experience before your Part 3 test. It is popular with new instructors who want to start earning sooner, but it is not compulsory.

How much does it cost to become a driving instructor?

The DVSA fees are fixed; training course fees vary widely by provider. The official DVSA fees are:

• ADI Part 1 (theory) test: £81
• ADI Part 2 (driving ability) test: £111
• ADI Part 3 (instructional ability) test: £111
• First ADI registration (your 'badge'): £300, and you renew every 4 years
• Trainee licence (optional): £140 for 6 months

On top of the DVSA fees you should budget for a training course, your DBS check and access to a suitable car (a dual-control car is usually needed to teach). Confirm every figure on the ADI fees page on GOV.UK, as fees change.

How long does it take?

Most people qualify in around 6 to 12 months, depending on how quickly you study and how much training you do. Remember you have a hard 2-year deadline to pass Parts 2 and 3 after passing Part 1.